Science
From mathematics and AI to medicine and psychology, The Optimist Daily features the latest news on discoveries, technological advances, and breakthroughs in the world of science. Our Science section is here to engage and enlighten you.
Scientist have made an AI that predicts when and where lightning will strike
Lightning strikes may be beautiful to see, but the consequences of them can be brutal. For one, lightning kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. On top of that, lightning strikes can be detrimental to farmers as they can cause fires that can destroy millions of dollars' worth of Read More...
Two of America’s biggest coal plants are closing this month
Coal is still America’s third most important energy source, but that won’t last long as two of America’s biggest coal plants are set to cease operations this month. The reason? Slowing electricity demand for coal, climate regulations, and consumers having cheaper alternatives for Read More...
Superconductors are about to make wind turbines ultra-efficient
Wind turbines are set to become a whole lot better at turning wind into energy after a team of Danish scientists tested a superconducting rotor on a turbine. So, you might be asking: what on Earth is a superconductor and how does it improve wind turbines? A superconductor is a material capable Read More...
These speedy robots are helping America tackle the recycling crisis
Since humans aren’t the best at sorting out all the different types of waste we produce, recycling centers around the country are adopting robots that use artificial intelligence to do the sorting job better. In Florida, for example, a sprawling recycling factory has 14 different robots that Read More...
After the nuclear disaster, Fukushima is being transformed into a clean energy hub
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Japan’s northeastern prefecture of Fukushima is recovering awesomely from the nuclear disaster that struck in 2011. The disaster, which was triggered by an earthquake, wreaked havoc on the energy hub and created toxic conditions in the wider area. But, Read More...
This device ensures people don't leave their kids or pets in the car
A new device developed by the Canada's University of Waterloo could potentially save many lives by preventing children and animals from being forgotten in vehicles. The small disc-shaped device can be mounted on a car ceiling or rearview mirror and sends out radar signals to detect signs of Read More...
Formula 1 is accelerating its efforts to become carbon neutral by 2030
It may not come as a huge surprise that the Formula 1 World Championship generates massive amounts of CO2 by flying drivers, teams, cars, and infrastructure to more than 20 countries across each racing calendar. Recently, however, it has pledged to clean up its act in a big way, with a commitment Read More...
Studies suggest humor is effective for engaging the public about climate change
Although the climate crisis is certainly a dark issue to communicate to people, three studies this year have come to the conclusion that using humor may be the most effective way to engage the public about the crisis. In March 2017, the American Psychological Association published a Read More...
No state is more prepared for a transition to 100% clean energy than Colorado
At the moment, Colorado only generates a fraction of its electricity using clean energy sources. Despite this, there’s perhaps no state that is better poised for a full-scale transition to clean energy. For one thing, thanks to its bountiful sunlight and wind, Colorado has enormous potential Read More...
We cannot overestimate how important fungi is for storing carbon in soil
Humans have long relied on fungi for sustenance and, er, inspiration. With that said, scientists are only just discovering how incredibly important fungi are for the Earth’s ability to store carbon. Human activity, especially large-scale agriculture, has severely affected a delicate and Read More...